Shocked friends of slain railway signalman say he never mentioned any fears or threats

It is understood the Iarnród Éireann employee, based in Cork Kent station, was stabbed in his home in Carrick-on-Suir, Co Tipperary

Ian Walsh, who was found dead in his home in Tipperary. A friend, Ciarán Casey, said of him: 'He was a lovely chap. He was very friendly and very knowledgeable.' Picture: Táilte Tours/Facebook

Friends of slain railway worker Ian Walsh said he was perfectly normal in the days before his violent death and never mentioned any fears or disagreements with anyone.

A murder investigation was launched by gardaí after an autopsy revealed that he was the victim of foul play.